
The Oklahoma City Thunder have continued their dominance this season, securing the top seed in the Western Conference through consistent, high-level play. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has led the way with elite scoring and playmaking.
At the same time, Chet Holmgren has been that key two-way presence, impacting both ends with his versatility and rim protection.
With a deep roster and a nine-game win streak, Oklahoma City carries strong momentum into the playoffs. However, injuries have begun to affect rotations. Despite a standout performance against the Orlando Magic, Holmgren is now listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets due to a hip contusion (h/t Clemente Almanza, ThunderWire).
Thunder injury report for tonight's game against the Nets:
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) March 18, 2026
Chet Holmgren (hip contusion) is questionable
Jalen Williams (hamstring strain) is out
Isaiah Hartenstein (soleus injury management) is out
Lu Dort (rest) is out
Nikola Topic (G League assignment) is out
Branden Carlson…
This isn’t the first injury Chet Holmgren has dealt with during his young career. He missed his entire rookie season after suffering a Lisfranc ligament tear in his right foot that required surgery, and he was sidelined again for three weeks in November 2024 with a right iliac wing fracture. Despite these setbacks, Holmgren has been outstanding as the Thunder’s starting center and a key piece of their success.
Across 59 games this season, he is averaging 17.3 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.7 assists while shooting an efficient 55.4% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range. He’s also a strong defensive presence, averaging 1.9 blocks per game and anchoring the paint.
His ability to stretch the floor, handle the ball, and create space adds another dimension to the offense. If he is unavailable, expect increased minutes for forwards like Jaylin Williams and Kenrich Williams.
A former Gonzaga Bulldog and the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Chet Holmgren has quickly developed into one of the league’s top centers. He earned All-Rookie honors in the 2023–24 season and has since elevated his game to an All-Star level. Holmgren played a major role in helping lead the Thunder to an NBA Championship in 2025, forming a dominant frontcourt alongside Isaiah Hartenstein.
After missing his rookie season due to injury, Holmgren returned and became a key reason for Oklahoma City’s success in both the regular season and playoffs. His chemistry with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been instrumental, positioning the Thunder as a contender to repeat as champions, potentially.
In July 2025, Holmgren signed a five-year, $239 million rookie contract extension, solidifying his place as a cornerstone of the franchise. With his continued growth and impact, the Thunder clearly view him as a central piece of their future.
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